Steam’s active user base has risen from 67 million to 90 million over the last year, with a majority of those coming from China – where the Chinese government is still refusing to approve new games for sale.
Back in August, the Chinese government was reported to have put a freeze on new video game licence approvals, with president Xi Jinping’s explaining that tougher regulations were now in place because he “cares for the children’s eyes” and wants to “let them have a bright future”.
Shortly after, the Chinese Ministry of Education elaborated that the new measures were intended to combat health problems, including addiction, that were believed to be related to online, mobile, and console games. As a result, the total number of online games were to be restricted, the amount of new games allowed into the country would be controlled, the age-ratings system would be reviewed, and limits would be placed on how long minors could play.
Source: Eurogamer Steam popularity skyrockets in China as government's freeze on new game approvals continues